Forty Club

The Forty Club 186 – 9, Paul Walker 4 – 54, Swampy Allum 3 – 46

Sussex Martlets 187 – 8, Ben Ferns 60, Jonathan Hughes 37, Will Rydon 35*

Victory by 2 wickets

A win! Played in glorious sunshine the Martlets ultimately prevailed in an exciting close match having almost snatched defeat from the jaws of victory! The Forty club won the toss and chose to bat first. Peter Collins and David Binns opened the bowling and gave little away. Peter Collins took two early wicket leaving The Forty Club to 42 for 2 after an hour. It was at this stage that it became apparent to the Martlets that it was going to be a long afternoon in the Field. However, they stuck to the task with some fine bowling from Swampy Allum, 3 for 46 from 20 overs and Paul Walker 4 for 54 off 10 overs. They were backed up by some fine fielding and catching, notably a fine catch in the deep by Michael Krause. At last after 53 overs the Forty Club declared on 186 for 9.

The Martlets started with purpose knowing that they would have a maximum of 41 overs to win. The scene was set by Michael Krause who hit his and the Martlets second ball for 4 but was sadly out next ball! Ben Ferns played well for 60 and put on 85 for the 3 wicket with Jonathan Hughes (37). Will Rydon steadied the ship with 35 not out, supported by a quick fire 11 from his son Henry who hit the only 6 of the match! A deft bit of psychology by the Skipper, out for nought, rapidly followed by his namesake Paul Walker gave the opposition more than a sniff off victory. In stepped David Binns who calmed scored 8 in 4 balls and victory was ours by 2 wickets – never in doubt!!!! It was achieved in a quick fire 35.4 overs.

For detailed information on each venue, please visit our Venues page